As spooky season approaches, excitement builds for the 2026 NWSL playoffs. With only a few weeks left in the regular season, players are pushing their limits, making it the perfect moment to unveil the Team of the Week from Attacking Third.
Selecting just eleven players for these honors is never an easy task, but we make the effort! Following the weekend’s matches, our analysts for Attacking Third will recognize standout players, a head coach, and an honorary captain based on their performances.
This section presents various stats, insightful analysis from our experts, and highlights you might have missed over the weekend. If you’re curious about previous honorees, you can look at our earlier Team of the Week.
Here’s the latest lineup:
Goalkeeper: Claudia Dickey (Seattle Reign)
Dickey remains alert throughout every game, proving her worth as a goalkeeper. Facing 20 crosses and eight shots, she maintained a clean sheet for Seattle, further solidifying her impressive season.
Defender: Sarah Gorden (Angel City FC)
Gorden has become crucial for Angel City, acting as the backbone of the defense. The seasoned player led her team in recoveries (10) during their match against Washington Spirit, effectively neutralizing striker Trinity Rodman.
Defender: Kristen McNabb (San Diego Wave FC)
Despite injury challenges, McNabb has been a stable influence in the backline for San Diego. Her solid positioning allows teammates to play more offensively.
Defender: Miyabi Moriya (Utah Royals FC)
Moriya stepped up for the Royals after the team faced two red cards, making an immediate difference by not only securing the defense but also contributing with an assist on an early goal.
Defender: Mimi Van Zanten (San Diego Wave FC)
The talented rookie, Van Zanten, continues to impress, performing as if she’s been in the league for years. She stood out with six clearances and even attempted a shot on goal.
Midfielder: Jess Fishlock (Seattle Reign FC)
The veteran midfielder showcased her skills by scoring twice, reaffirming her reputation as a complete player.
Midfielder: Vanessa DiBernardo (Kansas City Current)
Returning from maternity leave, DiBernardo made an impact on the field, delivering an exceptional backheel assist.
Midfielder: Maiara Niehues (Angel City FC)
Niehues scored her ninth goal, setting a new record for the club with her impressive season tally.
Forward: Sam Kerr (Gotham FC)
As Gotham aims for the NWSL Shield, Kerr’s return to form is a tremendous asset. Her striking ability remains a threat to opponents.
Forward: Temwa Chawinga (Kansas City Current)
Chawinga consistently dazzles with her skills, whether finding the back of the net or assisting teammates.
Forward: Haley Hopkins (Kansas City Current)
In a high-stakes game, Hopkins delivered with a hat trick, underscoring her talent.
Coach: Leif Gunnar Smerud (Angel City FC)
Smerud has led Angel City to an impressive six-game unbeaten streak, successfully navigating crucial matches.
Honorary Captain: Ashley Sanchez (North Carolina Courage)
Congratulations to Sanchez for tying the single-season goal record, making her a notable player alongside Temwa Chawinga.
Fan Take: This week’s highlights emphasize the talent and competition within the NWSL as teams gear up for playoffs, creating a thrilling atmosphere for soccer fans. The rise of remarkable players and their performances could be pivotal in shaping the future landscape of women’s soccer.
Source: www.cbssports.com
